Ahn Cheol-soo: "The Current Administration Must Not Distort History... General Baek Seon-yeop Is Also a Hero"

Proposal to Promote a Resolution of Appreciation for the 6.25 War Veterans

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] Ahn Cheol-soo, leader of the People’s Party, criticized the Moon Jae-in administration on the 8th, saying, “The current government should not intentionally deny or distort important parts of historical truth,” and added, “Modern history of the Republic of Korea belongs to everyone, not just those in power.”

At the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly that day, Ahn said, “I cannot help but be suspicious that the attempt to exclude the families of the Cheonan ship and the Battle of Yeonpyeong from the Memorial Day event stems from such standards,” and stated, “General Baek Seon-yeop should be objectively evaluated, recognizing both his merits and faults. If General Hong Beom-do is a hero who fought against Japanese imperialism, then General Baek Seon-yeop is also a hero who defended the free Republic of Korea against communist forces.”

Ahn said, “History should not be used as a tool for political struggle or as a means to monopolize the future. Interpreting modern history solely from one’s subjective perspective becomes a seed of conflict rather than a foundation for national unity,” and added, “If there are forces trying to use history now as a tool for political struggle for the presidential election two years from now, such people do not deserve to mention the names of the patriotic martyrs and national heroes.”

Ahn proposed, “In the first National Assembly of the 21st term, I suggest that all parliamentary parties jointly promote a resolution of appreciation for the veterans of the Korean War and the sacrifices and dedication of the participating countries,” and said, “It would be good if the political sphere creates a precious opportunity to reflect on the value of the freedom, democracy, peace, and prosperity we enjoy, and the gratitude toward those who made it possible, through a parliamentary resolution of appreciation involving all ruling and opposition parties.”